Say It Skillfully® – Promote (not Brag), Unlimited PTO and More

Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 159, Molly talks with callers about how to “promote yourself” (when you’ve been taught that’s not what you do), implement unlimited PTO and give feedback that your boss receives well! Molly’s first caller, Jenny, struggles with overcoming a fear of “bragging” when she needs to promote her own work. We talk about overcoming norms from her Asian upbringing and how it’s far easier for her to coach others to do this than actually do it herself! (A top tip: record yourself and practice.) Next, Jim shares the launch of unlimited PTO at his company! He talks about the positive and not so positives of how it was communicated, and asks for how to ensure his team members actually take the time they need. While the initial roll-out had a few misses, senior management thoughtfully followed up to help the organization embrace this. Hear how Jim is successfully navigating this change with his leadership, team and himself (18:30)! Finally, Grace talks about a new boss and challenges in getting the feedback she offers (which her boss has requested) to land well. She shares that her communication is quite direct, aiming for clarity. Grace and Molly talk about starting first in creating positive space for her and her boss to connect, so that Grace’s positive intention to be helpful actually is felt. This then paves the way to discuss any feedback (36:45). Don’t miss these in the moment situations of professionals like yourself. Learn how to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself! Molly’s thought for the week: Our job is to love the unlovable. —Shinzen Young